2 Samuel 14:20

Joab your servant has done this to bring about this change of affairs, but my lord has wisdom like the wisdom of the angel of God, to know everything that happens in the land."

Study Bible

Joab your servant has done this to bring about this change of affairs
Joab, the commander of David's army, is a key figure in the narrative of 2 Samuel. His actions often reflect a mix of loyalty and self-interest. In this context, Joab orchestrates a plan to reconcile King David with his estranged son Absalom. This reflects Joab's understanding of the political and familial tensions within the kingdom. The phrase "to bring about this change of affairs" indicates Joab's strategic intervention to alter the current state of estrangement between David and Absalom, highlighting his role as a mediator. This action can be seen as a reflection of the complex dynamics of leadership and loyalty in ancient Israel.

but my lord has wisdom like the wisdom of the angel of God
The comparison of David's wisdom to that of an "angel of God" underscores the high regard in which David's discernment and judgment are held. In biblical literature, angels are often seen as messengers of God, possessing divine insight and understanding. This phrase suggests that David's wisdom is perceived as divinely inspired, aligning with the biblical portrayal of David as a man after God's own heart (1 Samuel 13:14). The reference to angelic wisdom also connects to the broader biblical theme of divine guidance and the role of leaders as instruments of God's will.

to know everything that happens in the land.
This phrase emphasizes the expectation of a king to be fully aware of the affairs of his kingdom. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a king was not only a political leader but also a judge and protector of his people. The ability to "know everything that happens in the land" implies a comprehensive understanding of both the political and social dynamics at play. This expectation of omniscience is echoed in other biblical texts, where leaders are called to be vigilant and discerning (Proverbs 20:8). It also foreshadows the messianic expectation of a ruler who will reign with perfect justice and knowledge, a role ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ as the omniscient King.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joab
The commander of King David's army, known for his strategic mind and sometimes ruthless actions. In this context, Joab orchestrates a plan to reconcile King David with his estranged son Absalom.

2. King David
The second king of Israel, a man after God's own heart, who is dealing with the fallout of his son Absalom's exile after the murder of Amnon.

3. Absalom
David's son, who is in exile after killing his brother Amnon in revenge for the rape of their sister Tamar. His return to Jerusalem is the focus of Joab's plan.

4. The Wise Woman of Tekoa
A woman enlisted by Joab to present a parable to King David, prompting him to reconsider Absalom's situation.

5. The Angel of God
A reference to divine wisdom and insight, used here to describe King David's discernment.

Teaching Points

The Role of Wisdom in Leadership
True leadership requires wisdom that is not merely human but reflects divine insight. David's wisdom is likened to that of an angel, suggesting that leaders should seek God's guidance in their decisions.

The Power of Reconciliation
Joab's actions, though politically motivated, highlight the importance of reconciliation. As believers, we are called to be peacemakers and to seek restoration in relationships.

The Influence of Strategic Counsel
Joab's plan demonstrates the impact of strategic counsel. In our lives, we should seek wise and godly counsel to navigate complex situations.

The Complexity of Human Motives
Joab's motives were not purely altruistic, reminding us that human motives can be mixed. We should examine our hearts and ensure our actions align with God's will.

The Importance of Discernment
David's ability to discern the truth in the woman's account underscores the need for discernment in our spiritual walk. We should pray for the ability to see beyond appearances and understand deeper truths.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joab's plan to bring Absalom back to Jerusalem reflect both wisdom and manipulation? What can we learn from this about the complexity of human motives?

2. In what ways does King David's wisdom, described as "like the wisdom of the Angel of God," challenge us to seek divine wisdom in our own decision-making?

3. How can the reconciliation between David and Absalom inform our understanding of forgiveness and restoration in our personal relationships?

4. What role does strategic counsel play in your life, and how can you ensure that the advice you receive aligns with biblical principles?

5. Reflect on a time when you needed discernment to understand a complex situation. How did seeking God's wisdom help you navigate it, and how can this experience guide you in future decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 3:28
This verse highlights Solomon's wisdom, which is often compared to divine wisdom, similar to how David's wisdom is described in 2 Samuel 14:20.

James 1:5
This New Testament verse encourages believers to seek wisdom from God, who gives generously, paralleling the divine wisdom attributed to David.

Proverbs 2:6
This verse emphasizes that wisdom comes from the Lord, reinforcing the idea that true wisdom is a divine attribute.